Nigel De Jong: Manchester City can win the title

Nigel De Jong and Manchester City's players have set their sights on the Premier League title

City are seven points behind leaders Chelsea, but they are on a hot run while the three teams above them are faltering. Midfielder Nigel de Jong claimed: “Of course the title is a possibility. Nothing is impossible.”

City’s expensively-assembled stars have won their last four League matches to burst into the top four. If they stay there, City will qualify for the Champions League next season, which is the minimum demand of owner Sheikh Mansour.

Yet, after thumping Blackburn 4-1 on Monday and with hat-trick ace Carlos Tevez on fire, City are shooting for the sky.

De Jong said: “Though nothing is impossible, you have to work for it. You have to be realistic as well and remember this is only season No.1 for us after the big spending and we have to take it step by step.”

City, who last won a major trophy, the League Cup, in 1976, have won the league twice in their history, the last time 42 years ago. Now, the £300m-plus investment by Sheikh Mansour has given the Blues the belief that they can regain lost pride.

De Jong said: “That’s what it’s all about at City at the moment, to try and make a difference between the past and the future. Right now you can see what’s happening. Everyone is excited. It was a good performance against Blackburn and we’ve got to keep that going."

“Of course we can stay in the top four. You see how big the squad is. It’s not only the first 11 but the 22 players in the squad. The important thing is the Champions League place and trying to continue in that position. Then, we will see in March and April where we are standing.”